In an email sent to the press at 12:35 a.m., state Senate candidate Gia Arnold says she is stepping down from the race due to personal reasons.

The email, posted below in its entirety says Arnold participated in an extramarital affair beginning in August of this year. It states that she will no longer attend events and the money in her campaign account will be donated to charity.

The email came from Arnold's known gmail account and was confirmed via text message.

With Arnold bowing out, it leaves the endorsed Republican, Conservative and Independence parties candidate, Rob Ortt to battle the endorsed Democrat Johnny Destino in November. Ortt received the GOP and minor party endorsements following incumbent state Sen. George Maziarz declining his nominating petitions on those party lines in July. Maziarz had served more than 19 years in the state Senate.

Please see below letter from Gia:

It is with sincerest apologies that I must step away from actively campaigning this election cycle.

I have appreciated all of the support, encouragement, and donations along the way and hope to continue the relationships that I have made further.

I can only hope that district 62 will be led in Albany by a strong, Constitutional, and honest servant this coming year.

Any money left in my campaign account will be donated to a local charity of majority vote on my Facebook page.

Any events I was to attend will be cancelled and not rescheduled.

I have made personal decisions that have ultimately resulted in the necessity of my stepping down from the campaign.

I participated in an extramarital affair beginning in August of this year. It was an excuse for an escape from an already declining marriage. I cannot regret the decisions I have made, but I can admit to being happier presently than before.

It is for my ex husband, my children, my family and friends that I must publicly admit to my actions as I believe honesty and integrity are of utmost importance in life.

I hope that all I have disappointed will understand that I am only human and imperfect. I will be available for public comment and want to make available my cell phone number so that any constituent that may want to speak with me has that ability.

Thank you again.

Gia Arnold

585 402 5135
Gia4Senate@gmail.com

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